calm 1 of 3

Definition of calmnext
1
2
3

calm

2 of 3

noun

calm

3 of 3

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word calm different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of calm are peaceful, placid, serene, and tranquil. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

When is peaceful a more appropriate choice than calm?

In some situations, the words peaceful and calm are roughly equivalent. However, peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When might placid be a better fit than calm?

The words placid and calm can be used in similar contexts, but placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When would serene be a good substitute for calm?

Although the words serene and calm have much in common, serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

When can tranquil be used instead of calm?

The synonyms tranquil and calm are sometimes interchangeable, but tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of calm
Adjective
Play soft music to drown out fireworks blasts and give your pet something to do, like putting treats inside an interactive toy, to keep them calm and happy. Sandra McDonald, Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2026 Egypt brought the calm, cool, collected factors to the shootout, converting on all four attempts from Mahmoud Saber, Rami Rabia, Mohamed Salah and Hossam Abdelmaguid. Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 July 2026
Noun
Staying calm helps the conversation move from reaction to insight. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Cancer June 21 – July 22 A gentle calm steadies your choices now. Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 June 2026
Verb
Also, 'merica - Brandon C There's something calming about a sunset, even a picture of one. Sean Joseph Outkick, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2026 Would some good old-fashioned linoleum flooring help calm one down? Padgett Powell, Harpers Magazine, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for calm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for calm
Adjective
  • What was once a quiet corner of the terminal – your reward for loyalty or a hefty annual fee – has turned into a cafeteria for the masses.
    Christopher Elliott, USA Today, 2 July 2026
  • Rather than succumb to the misery of its subject matter, Union County is about the quiet, tedious, and remarkable work that is getting and staying sober — the final product a testament to all that can be achieved.
    Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • The project was set for Brownie Wise Park in Kissimmee, a serene 25-acre area purchased and conserved by the county for over a decade and popular for its walking trails.
    Natalia Jaramillo, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 June 2026
  • Completed in 1968 atop a steep hillside in Corte Madera, about 15 miles north of San Francisco, the cantilevered residence is equal parts bold architectural experiment and serene woodland sanctuary.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • City officials have repeatedly said the overwhelming majority of those celebrations have been peaceful.
    ABC News, ABC News, 2 July 2026
  • Rocheport is a historic Missouri River village known for its wineries, walkable downtown, and peaceful small-town atmosphere.
    Erika Ebsworth-Goold, Travel + Leisure, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • The proof was in my Oura ring sleep score—96% and optimal restfulness.
    Brianna Peters, Vogue, 28 Mar. 2026
  • But restfulness dropped—my body noticed the break.
    Marisa McMillan, Outside, 29 Dec. 2025
Noun
  • The province’s right to implement Islamic law was granted by Indonesia’s secular central government around 2005 as part of a peace deal to end a separatist insurgency.
    Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
  • One prominent Cherokee named Katteuha co-wrote a letter to Benjamin Franklin during the Constitutional Convention in 1787, urging him to push for peace between the Native people and settlers.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 3 July 2026
Verb
  • Share a meaningful story with a mentor or a relative far away, because seeing the bigger picture can soothe worries and recenter your priorities.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 5 July 2026
  • The Pineapple Punch Hydrating Face Mask is a single-use, two-piece yellow hydrogel mask infused with ingredients that deliver hydration and soothing benefits.
    Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 2 July 2026
Verb
  • Pomegranates also contain vitamin K and folate, which can help support healthy blood clotting and cell growth, respectively.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 2 July 2026
  • The Lineage warehouse, built in 2018, is likely to contain different materials of concern.
    Tony Briscoe, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • Located right across the water from Miami, Key Biscayne is filled with tranquil experiences in nature, delicious dining options with incredible views of the water, and even a little bit of history to explore.
    Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 13 June 2026
  • The tranquil beauty of Virginia’s river life unfolds like a folk melody at this waterfront inn located on a private peninsula.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 13 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Calm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/calm. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on calm

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster